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Explore Gateshead's past at a free Heritage Open Day

Tyne Derwent Way , 06 September 2024 08:50
St Mary's Church graveyard

St Mary's Church graveyard
Head down to the Tyne Derwent Way to celebrate Gateshead's history and culture at a free Heritage Open Day at one of the attractions along the route.

Along and around the Way, join teams of volunteers to enjoy and experience a variety of events that will bring our heritage to life.

Here's a taste of what's going on near you on Friday 13, Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 September. Click on the links below for more information and booking details for each event.

Join Dr Katie Liddane and local historian Anthea Lang for a suitably spooky tour of the graveyard at St Mary's this Friday and take a look around Gateshead's medieval church, where there will also be family craft activities. Discover the site's long - and sometimes dark - history and its strong connections with the wider region. The church is open from 10am to 4pm for visitors and the tours are at 11am and 2pm.

Discover Dunston Staiths

Between 10am and 3pm this Saturday, step onto this spectacular monument on the River Tyne at Dunston and soak up the panoramic river views - then enjoy refreshments at nearby Staiths Café.

This Saturday at 10.30am, explore the history of Dunston Staiths and the industry that would have been visible on both banks of the Tyne. The walk will take you onto the actual staiths - one of Europe's largest timber structures.

At the end of the Tyne Derwent Way you'll find Gibside - an escape into nature on the edge of town, offering scenic walking paths, historic ruins, wildlife-spotting opportunities and family-friendly activities. On Heritage Open Days (Friday and Saturday) you can visit for free and enjoy special talks, tours and activities.

Visit Bensham Grove in the heart of Gateshead and you'll be in good company - it's had many famous visitors over its 200-year history, including two prime ministers! Discover this renowned multicultural Arts Community Learning Centre and its unique and welcoming atmosphere.

St Cuthbert's will be open from 10am to 4pm on Saturday and 2pm to 4pm on Sunday. Step back in time with pictures of Old Blaydon and Winlaton alongside contemporary images from the Blaydon Photographic Society. Local author Val Scully will be talking about the origins of Blaydon at 2pm on Saturday, and on hand at other times through the weekend.

Nestling in the forest at Gibside, the Banqueting House stands in a grassy clearing looking down towards an octagonal pool and the Derwent Valley, in the highest part of the park. This Friday and Saturday, there's a rare chance to have a nosy inside.

Last modified: 28 October 2024 10:11

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